When most people think of Austria, the imposingly beautiful, snow-capped Alps spring to mind with all their skiing and winter sport potential. But Austria is so much more than just a winter hotspot, as we found out on a recent summer trip to Zell am See in the Salzberg region, with CLC World holidays...
You are hit by the overwhelming power and beauty of the Austrian Alps before you've even stepped off the plane as, on a clear day, they loom towards you on the approach into Salzberg airport.
The city itself is a must-see, well-known for its Sound of Music tour, but we were keen to get straight out into the countryside and took a short, 1.5 hour car journey south to Zell am See.
THE TOWN
Zell am See is a lakeside town, 800m above sea level, steeped in traditional Austrian culture and framed by mountains. The buildings, with their brightly-painted facades and flower-lined balconies make it a traditional and characterful community.
The town is full of cafes, restaurants and shops, as well as a local market which takes place every Friday morning in the main square from March to October.
The lake itself boasts almost drinking water quality as the local authorities maintain strict boating and maintenance rules. A great way to enjoy the lake is by taking a 45 minute panoramic cruise, which departs regularly most days. It includes information about the surrounding mountains and local community, and offers drinks and snacks on board.
Or, if you want to get a little closer to the water, you can hire smaller boats, paddle boards and canoes to take you around the lake.
ACTIVITIES
In Austria, with the absence of snow on lower levels in the summer months, there are so many activities that get you out in to the fresh air and amongst the mountains (and your adrenaline racing, if you so choose). Here are just a few you can't miss...
1. Glossglockner, the highest point in Austria
A 45 minute drive south from Zell am See stands Glossglockner, the highest mountain in Austria at 3,798m above sea level. On the top of the ridge, which is made up of 300 peaks all over 3,000m high, sits the longest glacia in the Eastern Alps, spreading to 275m at its widest point.
There is a car park on the edge of the glacia, at approximately 3,300m high, which is easily accessible by road. The journey up to the car park is breathtaking, with every hairpin bend bringing a new view of the bold mountains, grazing cows and goats, lonely alpine villages and the odd restaurant dotted along the roadside.
In winter, the road is completely covered in snow and takes a troop of ploughs to keep it clear throughout the ski season but, in summer, the mountain sides are green and peppered with wild flowers.
Tip: Look out for marmots living in burrows at the top near the car park.
2. Hiking and walking
The mountains in the Salzberg region provide endless opportunities for walking and hiking that suit many different abilities. There are some more strenuous hikes to the top of the peaks, but also some gentler walks at lower levels.
It is important to always follow an official route when out walking, as the changeable weather and rocky conditions can quickly become dangerous. It is a good idea to consult a local guide before setting off. We asked the advice of our hotel staff who knew the region like the backs of their hands (see below).
3. Biking
The beauty of the Alps can also be enjoyed on a bike, again with a range of difficulties when it comes to choosing a route. Electric bikes are a popular choice in Austria and offer a helping hand with the inclines. They are readily available to hire across the region. Ask your hotel if they have any to rent.
4. Tabboganing
The Salzberg region is home to some on the longest toboggan runs in Europe and, as you can imagine, the views on the way down are spectacular. The toboggan run on the Biberg peak in Saalfelden, just a 15 minute drive from Zell am See, is 1.6km long and includes 61 curves and three jumps. MORE INFO HERE
5. Tree-top walking
The Salzberg region is home to the highest tree-top trail in Europe, at the end of the Saalbach-Hinterglemm valley. Both sides of the valley are joined by a suspension bridge, 42m off the ground at its highest point. MORE INFO HERE
Other outdoor activities in the area include:
- Gorge exploring - more info here
- Paragliding - more info here
- Climbing
- The Flying fox - more info here
- Rafting - more info here
- Quad biking
AUSTRIA'S GREEN CREDENTIALS
Austria is a very clean place and boasts exceptional water quality in its lakes, spotless streets and strict recycling and maintenance policies.
To maintain water quality (almost drinking standard) in the lakes, the water is checked four times a year, including larger lakes like Lake Zell. All the public beaches surrounding the lakes are checked five times during the summer, according to the local tourist board.
20-years-ago the Land Salzburg created an automatic system to measure the pollution levels and uses regular readings to improve it constantly.
ACCOMMODATION
There are many options for accommodation in the Salzberg region, all perfect for different types of holiday. We stayed in a self-catering apartment in CLC World's Alpine Centre. A 15 minute drive out of Zell am See, it is a great location to access all the activity hotspots and, as expected, offers stunning views of the Alps from the balconies.
It is fully equipped with restaurant, bar, swimming pool and spa facilities, games room, outdoor lounge areas and log burner, children's play room and heated drying room for outdoor equipment.
The staff are perhaps the best thing about the resort as they have an excellent knowledge of the area and are able to guide you on everything, from which hiking route to take to how to prepare for the changeable weather. They can also recommend restaurants to try in Zell am See and advise you on what gear you'll need for your itinerary. Ask for Norbert, who heads up their experience programmes. He is a fountain of knowledge and is always there to answer questions and even accompany you if needs be.
Staying at the Alpine Centre, or any location out of town, it is important to note that a hire car is essential if you want to access the activities listed above and you are more likely to experience larger shopping areas and main roads.
FLIGHTS
British Airways fly direct from London Gatwick to Salzberg. They also fly from Manchester during the winter.
Ryanair fly direct from London Standstead to Salzberg.
TUI fly direct from Manchester, Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow to Salzberg.
Eurowings fly direct from London Stanstead to Salzberg.
